The returning officer for the bye-election of Mongar Demkhong accepted the candidates of Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) and Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) after scrutinising their candidature yesterday.

The deputy chief dzongkhag election coordinator, national observer, micro-observer, dzongkhag election officials, candidates, and representatives were present during the official announcement.

The candidates filed their nominations on May 24.

Dorji Youden, 30, from Pangjakpa village in Chali gewog, has a BA degree in Media studies and Dzongkha from Sherubtse College and will represent DPT in the bye election.

DNT’s candidate Karma Lhamo, 42, is from Tsakaling gewog. She has Master’s degree in Business Administration. After losing the 2018 elections, she has been running a family business.

Election officials briefed the candidates of the election process including Covid-19 protocols, campaign expenses, social media monitoring and other legal issues related to the election.

Common forums are scheduled chiwog-wise from May 27 until June 18. Candidates can also do door-door campaigns from 6am to 6pm after the schedule is approved by the returning officer.

While the campaign period started yesterday, both the candidates did not begin their campaign as they were engaged in official work.

Dorji Youden plans to kickstart her campaign from her village after meeting her parents, while Karma Lhamo will commence her campaign going door-door in Mongar town.

Both the candidates pledge to maintain a harmonious relationship and make it an exemplary election.

By Tshering Namgyal | Mongar

Edited by Tshering Palden